10 ways to save money and the planet!

I read a great article today on worldwatch.org about 10 ways to go green and save your green =). I thought I would share with everyone. Enjoy!

1. Save water and money by:
*Taking showers instead of baths to reduce water usage.
*Installing a low flow shower head. They don't cost much and the savings on water and energy will quickly add up to what you paid for it.

2. Save energy and money by:
*Set your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter and a few degrees higher in the summer. Just a few degrees will help save!
*Install compact florescent light bulbs when your older incandescent bulbs burn out.
*Unplug appliances when you're not using them. Or use a smart power strip that senses when appliances are off and cuts off the non energy use.
*Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. As much as 85% of the energy used to wash clothes goes to heating the water.

3. Less gas = more money and better health.
*Walk or bike to work. This saves on gas and parking costs and also puts you in better shape.
*Consider carpooling if you live far from your work. Or move closer. Even if this means paying more rent, it could save you money in the long term.

4. Eat smart.
*If you eat meat, add one meatless meal a week. Meat costs a lot at the store and it's even more expensive when you consider the related environmental and health costs.
*Buy locally raised, humane, and organic meat, eggs, and dairy whenever you can. Purchasing from local farmers keeps money in the local economy.

5. Skip the bottled water.
*Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water.
*Bring an empty water jug to your nearest supermarket and refill them for as little as .20 cents a gallon.
*Bring a reusable water bottle (preferably aluminum rather than plastic) with you when traveling or at work.

6. Reuse empty container
*When done with your products the containers can simply be reused again and make great storage containers. Recycling is great but reusing is even better!

7. Borrow instead of buying.
*Borrow from libraries instead of buying personal books and movies. This saves money, not to mention the ink and paper that goes into printing new books.
*Share power tools and other appliances. Get to know your neighbors while cutting down on the number of things cluttering your closet or garage.

8. Buy smart.
*Buy in bulk. Purchasing food in large amounts can save money and packaging.
*Wear clothes that don't need to be dry-cleaned. This saves money and cuts down on toxic chemical use.
*Invest in high-quality, long-lasting products. You might pay more now, but you'll be happy when you don't have to replace items as frequently.

9. Keep electronics out of the trash.
*Keep your cell phones, computers, and other electronics as long as possible.
*Donate or recycle them responsibly when the time comes. E-waste contains mercury and other toxins and is a growing environmental problem.
*Recycle your cell phone.
*Ask your local government to set up an electronics recycling and hazardous waste collection event.

10. Make your own cleaning supplies.
*All you need are a few simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon, and soap.
*Making your own cleaning products saves money, time, and packaging (not to mention your indoor air quality).